Tsumo

The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.

Kutya hakuna gobvu.

Definitions gobvu: scar Translation There is no scar in fear. Inspiration Cowards avoid fights and as a result, are spared … Read more

Kutya kukotama; gunguo rakatya, mapapata aro mashoma.

Definitions mapapata: remains – scattered bones, generally of an animal. Literal translation To fear is to bend low; the crow … Read more

Kuudza mwana, hupedzisira.

Translation When you explain something to a child, do so to the very last detail. Inspiration Children are generally inexperienced … Read more

Kuvaka zvitumba vaka zviviri, chimwe kutsva unodzamba nechimwe.

Word Definitions chitumba: small makeshift hut dzamba: take shelter Translation Make two shelters instead of one so that when one … Read more

Kuvaraidza nguva, kuteya nzou neriva.

Word definitions riva: trap with a falling flat stone for catching small animals Translation Trying to capture an elephant with … Read more

Kuve ganda, handi kuve nyama.

Translation Skin is not meat. Application Being related to someone in authority should not lead one to believe they possess … Read more

Kuverenga mombe nedzisipo, kuverenga nemiswe.

Translation When counting cattle, counting those that are elsewhere is counting tails as well. Inspiration In communities that practise livestock … Read more

Kuvhunduka chati kwatara hunge une katurikwa.

Word definitions katurikwa: Something that is hanging, or placed on top of another. kwatara: An ideophone of falling to the … Read more

Kuwanda huuya, kwakatorambwa nevaroyi.

Translation It is good when there are many people, witches even detest it. Application A wide network of personal relationships … Read more

Kuwanda huuya, mota yokumusana ungotumburwa.

Translation It is good when there are many of you because you will have someone to squeeze a boil on … Read more

Kuwanda huuya, museve wakapotera pamuzukuru.

Translation It is good when there are many people; an arrow (fired by the enemy) hit the nephew instead. Application … Read more

Kuwanda huuya, museve wakapotera pamwanasikana.

Translation It is good when there are many people; an arrow (fired by the enemy) hit the daughter instead. Application … Read more

Kuzengurira izwi romukuru kuramba mhangwa.

Definitions mhangwa: advice zengurira: be unwilling to exert oneself Translation A lack of willingness to act on an elder’s word … Read more

Kuzvara hakuna hombarume.

Word Definitions hombarume: a very skilful hunter Translation Having children has no expert. Inspiration Parents strive to raise their children … Read more

Kwamairidigikira ndiko kwomoringa benya, kwamairinga benya ndiko kwomoridigikira.

Word Definitions ridigikira:  make frequent visits to a place benya: elude (discreetly) Translation Now you elude and secretly glance at … Read more

Worried Your Child Is Behind in Shona?

There’s still time to catch up before the Grade 7 exam.

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    ZimbOriginal was born from a passion for discovery and writing, and a commitment to never losing sight of who we are.

    It is a place for stories on culture, customs, traditions, and anything else indigenous to Zimbabwe. ZimbOriginal not only promotes cultural awareness, but also supports learning and discovery.

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